Abstract
This paper discusses the Seventh Day Adventists Church, its history and its basic tenants. The paper compares the beliefs and practices of Seventh Day Adventists to members of other Christian denominations and particularly Protestant groups from which the Seventh Day Adventists originated. The author also points to similarities to other Christian sects that also believe in the literal interpretation of the bible.

From the Paper
"Furthermore, Seventh-Day Adventists observe the Sabbath on Saturday and not Sunday with most other Protestants. Their ascription to the traditional Jewish Sabbath also stems from the Adventists' firm belief in a literal interpretation of the Old and New Testaments. A significant feature of the Seventh - day Adventist religion is the promotion of an almost ascetic lifestyle. Abstinence from alcohol and tobacco is a core tenet. Moreover, the Adventists promote Biblical dietary guidelines similar to kosher practices. Finally, Adventists uphold Ellen White as a prophet."

Tags:church protestants prophet religon christ, seventh day adventists, baptists presbyterians methodists god

Abstract
In this article, the writer studies Martin Luther's reasons for breaking with the Church of Rome. The writer examines Luther's self-questioning of his own fitness for salvation. In this paper, the writer discusses Luther's criticisms of the political and financial corruption of the Roman Catholic Church. The writer also looks at the Protestant Reformation.

From the Paper
"There are two conventional views of history. One view sees great men and women as the agents of historical changes, the other view of history is that events shape the circumstances in which the major players emerge. Both of course, have their validity and in fact we need to use both points of view to understand an event as important as the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther broke away from the Roman Catholic Church gradually in a series of events and decisions that he ... "

Tags:Protestant, Reformation, Martin, Luther

Abstract
This paper uses ideological criticism to attempt to discover the true ideology behind the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS). In order to fully understand the ideology of this religious sect, it dissects it through Neo-Aristotelian and cluster criticism methods which allow the paper to separate specific elements of the speeches and display the full effect that rhetoric has in the FLDS belief system.

Outline
Nature of the Ideology
Research Question
Method
Ideological Criticism
Neo-Aristotelian Criticism
Cluster Criticism
Ideology of the FLDS
Three Artifacts: A Look Behind the Real Ideology
Contribution to Rhetorical Theory

From the Paper
"Through this close analysis of speeches made by Warren Jeffs it is obvious that the FLDS seem to have, in their minds at least, a hegemonic ideology. They believe that they are the chosen ones on earth and that anyone who disagrees with what the Prophet says is deemed unworthy, ultimately placing themselves above every other non-FLDS member person in the world. They abide closely to the Prophet's word and are brought up from a young age embedded with the belief that the Prophet really is a human representation of God on earth. Jeffs uses an intense level of ethos in the beginning of each of his lectures and sermons. By cutting the FLDS members off from the radio, most television stations, and other outside influences, the Prophet is able to mold the minds of these young members from an early age."

Tags:Prophet, warren, jeffs, polygamy, cult

Abstract
This paper describes the La Placita Church of Los Angeles. The paper explains that this is the oldest Catholic church in Los Angeles and has been operational for more than 200 years. The paper also points out that through its history and its commitment to Los Angeles' immigrant population, La Placita has become an important cultural center in the city. The paper then describes the services, the clergy and the people who pray at the church. In conclusion, the paper describes the architecture of the building in which the church is housed.

Outline:
Services
People Working
People Praying
Dress Code
Parking
Fees
Building

From the Paper
"La Placita was founded in 1784 as a chapel, but the building expanded and the church was finally completed in 1822. La Placita is so old that it has surveyor posts in front of the church that mark the original territorial boundaries of Los Angeles ("Explore El Pueblo"). Olvera Street consists of 27 historic buildings designed with typical Mexican style, and La Placita is one of them ("Olvera Street"). The church is a light, earth-tone color and is constructed in the traditional colonial Spanish architecture style. It has a small round protrusion in the center - somewhat reminiscent of the Alamo - with two angels beneath it. The interior of the church is famous for its ornate displays of wrought iron, gold leaf and various religious murals ("El Pueblo de Los Angeles")."

Tags:Christian, religon, colonial, architecture

Abstract
The paper looks at the philosophical foundations of each, the biblical and doctrinal emphases of each one, historical developments, and the attitudes and teachings suffusing each one. The paper finds that while the two churches are substantially the same, there appears to be at least one significant doctrinal difference between them - and the Assembly of God Church seems to have a measure of theological and doctrinal confidence that bodes well for its future; by comparison, the history of the Church of Christ suggests latent factionalism and less willingness to "proselytize" the masses. Ultimately, the paper makes the case that all this makes it weaker than its AOG counterpart.

Tags:church, assembly, god

Abstract
This paper gives the author's personal impressions of a stained glass window depicting the life of Christ. The window, located at the Riverside Church in New York, is described and reflected upon by the author.

From the Paper
"The stained glass window that I saw was one of Christ as an adult showing images like the story on a child's picture book. The bright colored lights that seemed to glow out of the sun into the vast dark stone structure. I loved those vivid images that showed facial expressions in such detail and accuracy. The path of the images that made a story was structured rather like an inverted ?U?. The middle of the arch showed the images of Christ and his disciples perhaps The Last Supper. I could not give all the information in accurate detail because there were some images that I thought more striking to me than the others. "

Tags:chirst, christ, church, glass, life, new, parables, people, riverside, stained, temptation, window, york

Abstract
The writer of this paper contends that Warren's main goal is to teach others about the cause of Christ. This paper details the contents of Warren's book while discussing the author's opinion regarding the myths attached with growing churches. The author tackles the argument that large churches are only concerned with attendance. This paper examines the church's general premise, which according to Warren, begins with a solid foundation, which builds morale and reduces frustration. Warren describes how churches can turn attenders into members, by implementing a plan that assimilates new members by focusing on congregational needs. This paper discusses Warren's suggestions and strategies for improving the current situation in churches across America. This paper also lists the five main purposes of the church, according to the author, which include loving the Lord, loving one's neighbor and teaching obedience.

From the Paper
"The following section focuses on how a church becomes purpose driven. This begins with a solid foundation, which can be set forth with a purpose statement. This, in Warren's opinion, builds morale and reduces frustration. In addition, a church's purpose is not created as much as it is discovered. Purpose statements are biblical, specific, transferable, and measurable. In this section, Warren also goes over five purposes o the church, which include loving the Lord, loving one's neighbor, making disciples, baptism, and teaching obedience. Warren also discusses communication and organizing the body of the church around the church's purpose. Part of this plan includes the five circles of commitment, which are community, crowd, congregation, the committed, and the core."

Tags:literature, american, review, church, christ, religion, theology

Abstract
This paper discusses Custer's biblically-based, scholarly work, "Witness to Christ". The paper explains that Dr. Custer's purpose in writing this book is to bring the reader close to the message, the culture, and experiences of the 1st century church as recorded in the "Book of Acts". The paper deduces that the book, "Witness to Christ", is a refreshing work, faithful to orthodox and fundamental Christian faith.

From the Paper
"Many who undertake to write on spiritual matters do so with an eye to explain spiritual matters in a way that is acceptable to modern man. For these authors, Jesus was a great man, but not the son of God. For this group, the early church was a group of misguided and overly enthusiastic groupies who needed a political leader with divine attributes, and the record of Jesus contained in the New Testament is nothing more than the embellished stories which they told each other in order to find comfort in their political and social misery. Not so for Dr. Stewart Custer. Dr. Custer's treatment of the Book of Acts in his book Witness to Christ is a biblically based scholarly work which expounds on the record while honoring the identity of Christ as the Son of God, and God the son. For bible students who want to get to know the historical context of the early church, while at the same time building an orthodox, fundamental understanding of both the bible and the early church, this book is a powerful addition to a personal library."

Tags:church, christianity, jesus, new, testament

Abstract
The author of this paper attended a Jehovah's Witness service "Memorial for Christ's Death" (akin to a Passover Celebration or Easter Service). In a personal observation, the author notes the social interaction and comments on the differences between members and "outsiders". Details of the service are also included, textually and graphically.

From the Paper
"I do feel that the people I met were sincere in their belief that they were practicing God s will, but what was the hidden agenda . I definitely conformed to the social standard operating procedures regardless of my religion. Their meeting place, the Kingdom Hall is subtle thus reinforcing the passive attitude of the attendees. I think way the Witnesses dressed distinguishes them from society. Even though I was clean and presentable I felt different. I think that they present themselves as interested (introducing themselves) and helpful (sharing the hymn book) to convince outsiders that they are a caring organization. If one is convinced that they are an organization to be trusted then perhaps the ultimate goal of converting new recruits can be reached."

Tags:Kingdom, Hall, church, Jesus, Christ

Abstract
This paper points out that the same factors that brought people to the early church also brought about the Reformation . The author states that as science developed, the church began to fall apart. The author concludes that it is unlikely that the breakup of the church could have been prevented.

Table of Contents
Key Points to the Church
Combination of Church and State
The Fall of the Church
More Technology, More Choices
The Church Would have Fallen Sometime

From the Paper
"Early Christianity taught that history was important because there were spiritual value placed on the past. Classical humanism did not believe this way, it placed value on being able to reason and put one's talents to use. However, individuals did start churches and worked in these churches by using the talents they had. "

Tags:christianity, humanism, middle, ages, science, printing, press, technology, choices, books, newspapers, letters, protestants, catholic